West Thames College was delighted to welcome Seema Malhotra, Labour (Co-op) MP for Feltham and Heston, to its Freshers Fair 2026, marking the start of a new academic year and celebrating the opportunities available to students.
Freshers Fair is an important part of the college calendar, providing an opportunity to officially welcome new students and introduce them to the people, services, opportunities and experiences that make student life at West Thames College so special.
During her visit, Seema Malhotra MP highlighted the importance of careers education and encouraged students to make the most of opportunities that can help shape their futures.
Speaking at the event, Seema said:
“I’m proud to be here at West Thames College to be part of this careers fair. It is such a great opportunity for students to be able to find out more about the opportunities available to them. It could be to develop their leadership skills, or learn about volunteering, or think about their next steps. It’s never too early to plan. And to have those opportunities come to you, the chance to explore them in good time can really make a difference for your own life.”
The Freshers Fair also welcomed a range of exhibitors who spoke with students, shared advice and introduced them to opportunities and services available in the local community. Exhibitors included St Mary’s University, Twickenham; London Borough of Hounslow; HYPE; Hounslow’s Promise; Hounslow Youth Counselling Service; Young Hounslow Sexual Health; Healthy Hounslow; Ealing and Hounslow Volunteering Service; and Lampton Leisure.
Their presence helped students explore a variety of options, from higher education and volunteering to wellbeing, community support, leisure and personal development.
The MP’s visit also reflects the strong relationship between local government and West Thames College. This was not her first visit to the College. She has previously joined us for a range of events, including the launch of our Transport + Logistics Hub at the Skills + Logistics Centre in Feltham, as well as events at our Isleworth campus, such as Our Hounslow and our annual Student Awards ceremonies.
We were pleased to welcome Seema Malhotra MP back to the college as we begin another academic year, helping students discover new opportunities, build confidence and take their next steps towards their future careers.
